"An African Election" is about the presidential election of 2008 in Ghana. It's one of the few African nations where they've had recent PEACEFUL elections and in 2008 it's yet another chance to see if the democratic system works or is destined to failure. In this case, it's a contest between the NDC (which used to rule the country for many years) and the NPP (who currently holds the presidency).
Throughout the film, there is no narration and folks on all sides of the political spectrum get their chance to speak--both the politicians, their boosters and the average Ghanian. For the most part, the democratic system seems to be working though there are some serious challenges including: the use of 'macho men' to dissuade voters, some volatile citizens and politicians who seem quick to claim cheating has occurred--even before they get the facts. However, on the positive side, I was amazed at how involved the citizens were--with a greater than 96% voter turnout* and voters arriving as early as 3am in order to vote and many waiting 10-12 hours to vote!
While I liked seeing this look at politics Ghanian style, I also was a bit frustrated because little was provided as far as explaining the Ghanian political landscape. For example, you have no idea WHAT the NDC and NPP stand for and how they differ! And, although they focus on the presidency, what about the legislation? I felt that so much could have been said and the context for the film seemed to be missing. Good, but it could have been a lot better.
*In the 'civilized world', voter turn out is shameful. The last time it even topped (barely) 60% in the USA was 1968. We have a lot to learn from the Ghanians!
